Mohawk Valley COVID-19 Response Fund Awards $150,000+

Community-wide Effort Responds to Critical Medical Equipment Needs

The Community Foundation of Herkimer and Oneida Counties and the United Way of the Valley and Greater Utica Area (VGU) today announced that more than $420,000 has been raised for the Mohawk Valley COVID-19 Response Fund and that more than $150,000 has been awarded to nonprofits in the first round of funding.

First round grant recipients include Mohawk Valley Health System, Rome Memorial Hospital, Little Falls Hospital, Catholic Charities Oneida/Madison County, and Johnson Park Center. The initial round of grantmaking reflects the local response to Governor Andrew M. Cuomo’s directive that hospitals statewide increase capacity by 50% to prepare for a rising number of COVID-19 cases, as well as programs that provide direct human services benefits for residents in need. These funds will allow for purchase of hospital supplies and equipment, increased food distribution, and access and support to agencies providing emergency assistance for individuals.

On March 20, The Community Foundation and United Way VGU announced the creation of a single community-wide fund to support organizations responding to human services needs in Herkimer and Oneida counties resulting from the impact of the COVID-19 global pandemic. Major contributions from M&T Bank/Partners Trust Bank Charitable Fund, the Rising Phoenix Fund, the Ronald and Sheila Cuccaro Family Fund, Mele Family Fund, David and Janet Griffith Family Fund, Bull Family Fund, The Community Foundation and United Way VGU established the fund initially. Generous donations from residents in both counties continue to grow the fund, as the need for community support is expected to increase.